Description

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of pasta, especially when it’s rich, creamy, and packs just the right punch of heat. Spicy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is one of those meals that feels like a celebration in a bowl. It’s bold, it’s hearty, and it’s perfect for nights when you want something that’s both quick to throw together and full of flavor.

I first fell in love with this dish after a cozy night at a small Southern-inspired bistro that served Cajun pasta with just the right amount of kick. It was raining outside, and that bowl of pasta was like a warm hug after a long day. Since then, it’s become one of my favorite weeknight dinners to whip up at home. It’s also my go-to when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen—because let’s be real, who doesn’t love creamy pasta with tender chicken and a hint of spice?

This dish is rooted in Cajun cuisine, which hails from Louisiana and is known for its bold use of spices, smoky flavors, and soulful cooking. It’s a dish that celebrates flavor—where every bite tells a story of tradition, warmth, and heart.

Ingredients

Scale

2 chicken breasts, sliced

2 tbsp Cajun seasoning

2 tbsp olive oil

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 bell pepper, sliced

1 small onion, sliced

2 cups heavy cream

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

8 oz fettuccine pasta (or pasta of choice)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. I like to drizzle a bit of olive oil over it so it doesn’t stick while you prep the rest.

Step 2: Season and cook the chicken
While the pasta’s cooking, toss your sliced chicken breasts in Cajun seasoning until well coated. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the veggies
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and sauté your bell peppers and onions until soft and slightly caramelized—about 5–7 minutes. Add in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This part smells amazing and really sets the tone for the whole dish.

Step 4: Make the creamy Cajun sauce
Lower the heat to medium and slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Once it starts to bubble gently, stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts into a smooth, velvety sauce. Add a bit more Cajun seasoning if you like it extra spicy—this part is totally up to you!

Step 5: Combine it all
Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything in that luscious sauce. Let it simmer for a minute or two to help the flavors meld together.

Step 6: Serve and enjoy
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy. Serve hot and dig in

Notes

If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.
For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream.